The paper presents the method of using the solution selection method in developing a new concept of the BOBCAT E62 excavator control handle, with the aim of implementing a lightweight design. The lightweight design concept is used in various industries, including the design, i.e. construction of construction machinery, where the use of modern materials and design methods can lead to an optimal solution, while maintaining load-bearing capacity and functionality. The modified handle design solution aims to reduce weight, without major changes to other parts of the assembly of which it is a component. Two methods were used to assess the concept selection, as an integral part of the product development process, i.e. the solution selection phase. The selected concept solution should contribute to improvements in terms of durability, compactness and reduced energy consumption.

Directed Energy Deposition (DED) processes offer the advantage of producing larger parts with higher deposition rates compared to Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) additive manufacturing (AM). However, DED typically results in simpler geometries and lower resolution. When using Wire and Arc- based DED, even larger components can be manufactured at an accelerated rate, but the higher heat input may lead to undesirable microstructures, adversely affecting mechanical properties. To ensure defect-free depositions, precise process control is essential, including optimizing deposition paths, regulating inter-layer temperature, and maintaining a consistent nozzle-to-layer distance. One effective approach to improving material integrity is the application of in-situ vibrations during deposition. This technique helps reduce porosity and grain size while also enhancing surface waviness and mitigating residual stress buildup. Further refinement of material properties can be achieved through appropriate thermo-mechanical processing, leading to mechanical characteristics comparable to conventionally produced steel. This paper explores the impact of in-situ vibrations and heat treatment through case studies, analysing their effects on surface waviness, residual stress distribution, porosity, microstructure, grain size, mechanical properties, and fracture toughness. The findings demonstrate the significant benefits of these process enhancements in improving the mechanical performance of DED- fabricated components.

Nanostructured adhesives represent a paradigm shift in bonding technology, leveraging the unique physicochemical properties of nanoscale materials to enhance adhesive performance. This review examines the fundamental principles underlying nanostructured adhesive design, focusing on the role of nanoparticles, nanofillers, and nanocrystals in improving mechanical properties. Furthermore, this paper will explore the diverse applications of nanostructured adhesives across industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, and biomedicine, highlighting the potential for tailored adhesive solutions.

Additive manufacturing enables the production of parts with complex geometries that would be difficult or impossible to produce with conventional manufacturing technologies – and with minimal waste. A more massive use of additive technologies makes it possible to shorten supply chains and reduce the need to store parts. Fixtures are essential production aids that position, hold and support workpieces, ensuring positioning accuracy, repeatability and operator safety during assembly and bonding. This paper presents how the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) process can provide such fixtures for the adhesive bonding of metal parts in rail vehicle composite structures. By adapting geometry, surface properties and ergonomics to the bonding task at hand, FDM fixtures improve alignment accuracy and simplify handling.

This study investigates the impact of drying-rewetting and freezing-rewetting events on soil leachate ion composition across two contrasting geochemical settings through a series of controlled laboratory experiments. Dissolution of ions (Na?, K?, Ca??, Mg??, Al??, Fe??, Mn??, F?, Cl?, NO??, SO???, NO??, PO???) in soil leachate was analyzed following rewetting cycles after drying and freezing treatments. Results indicate that variations in leachate ion concentrations are primarily influenced by bedrock type, while drying-rewetting and freezing-rewetting treatments did not significantly impact overall variance. However, some inconsistent differences were observed: higher K? concentrations in calcareous soils and Al??, Fe?? and Mn?? in acidic soils after drying, higher anion concentrations in calcareous soils in both treatment leachates compared to controls. Findings highlight that the effects of drying, freezing, and rewetting are inherently linked to treatment type, ion characteristics, and geochemical conditions.

Background: Maternal anaemia is one of the most common complications of pregnancy and is associated with adverse outcomes such as preterm delivery, impaired fetal development, and increased risks of morbidity and mortality in the perinatal period. The high prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy and its impact on fetal development represents a significant public health issue. The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of maternal anaemia on neonatal outcomes. Patients and Methods: In a two-year prospective study conducted at the Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics and the Clinic of Children's Diseases of the University Clinical Center Tuzla, 177 newborns and their mothers were analyzed-127 in the experimental group (mothers with anaemia) and 50 in the control group (without anaemia). Sociodemographic and clinical data of the mothers and newborns were collected. Data were processed using conventional statistical techniques. Ethical approval was obtained from the relevant institutional review board. Results: Of the 120 (70.58%) mothers with anaemia included in the study, 106 (88.3%) were between 18 and 35 years of age. Working mothers had lower odds of anaemia (p = 0.025), while mothers who did not use supplements during pregnancy had higher odds (p = 0.001). Maternal anaemia was significantly associated with smoking or tobacco use (p = 0.015). Mothers living outside of marriage were more likely to be anaemic. A higher percentage of vaginal bleeding (p = 0.0001), uncontrolled pregnancies (p = 0.011), and caesarean section as the mode of delivery (p = 0.000) were recorded among anaemic mothers. Babies born to anaemic mothers had lower birth weight compared to those born to non-anaemic mothers (p = 0.004). Maternal anaemia significantly affected gestational age (p = 0.024) and Apgar scores in the 1st (p = 0.006) and 5th minutes (p = 0.0031). In this study, maternal anaemia during pregnancy had a statistically significant impact on perinatal outcomes including perinatal asphyxia, respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal infections, icterus neonatorum, intracranial hemorrhage, and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Conclusion: In developing countries, current strategies for the prevention of anaemia in pregnancy have had limited success. Programs for careful monitoring and management of anaemia during pregnancy need to be developed in order to prevent poor perinatal outcomes.

This paper analyzes the development of an above-knee prosthesis based on hydraulic actuators, which was initiated at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Computing and Electrical Engineering at the University of Mostar, and has continued since 2023 in collaboration with the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Montenegro. The evolutionary trajectory of the prosthetic design is presented, from the initial models with a single hydraulic cylinder in the knee joint, through the integration of an additional actuator in the ankle joint and modifications to the prosthetic foot, to modern solutions featuring double-acting cylinders and separate hydraulic power units. Experimental testing has confirmed significant improvements in user stability, functionality, and natural gait, especially when ascending stairs. The paper also emphasizes future development directions, including the implementation of servo valves in the hydraulic system to achieve more precise fluid control, smoother movements, and automatic adaptation of the prosthesis to varying walking conditions. The research results indicate that hydraulic systems represent a significant technological advancement in modern prosthetics, enabling transfemoral amputees greater independence, comfort, and quality of life.

Background: Stroke patients have significant disability and an increased risk of falling. Objective: To determine the incidence of falls and the degree of disability in stroke patients and to determine the correlation of falls with the degree of disability. Methods: This is a prospective study of 100 stroke patients confirmed by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain. We used a demographic questionnaire together with the Glasgow Coma Scale, Stroke Assessment Scale, Rankin Scale and Morse Scale to collect data and analyzed them using SPSS 17, including statistical measures, including Pearson correlation. Results: Hemorrhagic stroke patients had a higher incidence of falls (p = 0.06). There was no difference in the incidence of falls according to the gender of the patients (p = 0.07). Older people had a higher frequency of falls, and women and patients with hemorrhagic stroke had a higher risk of falling (p = 0.2). Patients with a stroke in the area of the anterior circulation were statistically significantly more disabled (p < 0.05). A weak positive correlation was calculated between the frequency of falls of patients after stroke and the degree of disability (r = 0.08, n = 94, p = 0.4). Stroke patients who also had atrial fibrillation as a comorbidity had a statistically significantly higher frequency of falls compared to patients with other comorbidities (p = 0.02). Conclusion: Patients with hemorrhagic stroke have a higher frequency of falls. Women, elderly people, patients with a stroke in the area of the anterior circulation and with atrial fibrillation as a comorbidity are statistically significantly more disabled after a stroke. There is a positive correlation between the frequency of falls in patients after a stroke and the degree of disability.

: With the increasing complexity of hotel selection, traditional decision-making models often struggle to account for uncertainty and interrelated criteria. Multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques, particularly those based on fuzzy logic, provide a robust framework for handling such challenges. This paper presents a novel approach to MCDM within the framework of Circular Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets (C-IFS) by combining three distinct methodologies: Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS), an Alternative Ranking Order Method Accounting for Two-Step Normalization (AROMAN), and the CRITIC method (Criteria Importance Through Inter-criteria Correlation). To address the dynamic nature of traveler preferences in hotel selection, the study employs a comprehensive set of criteria encompassing aspects such as location proximity, amenities, pricing, customer reviews, environmental impact, safety, booking flexibility, and cultural experiences. The CRITIC method is used to determine the importance of each criterion by assessing intercriteria correlations. AROMAN is employed for the systematic evaluation of alternatives, considering their additive relationships and providing a weighted assessment. WASPAS further analyzes the results obtained from AROMAN, incorporating both positive and negative aspects for a comprehensive evaluation. The integration of C-IFS enhances the model’s ability to manage uncertainty and imprecision in the decision-making process. Through a case study, we demonstrate the effectiveness of this integrated approach, offering decision-makers valuable insights for selecting the most suitable hotel option in alignment with the diverse preferences of contemporary travelers. This research contributes to the evolving field of decision science by showcasing the practical applicability of these methodologies within a C-IFS framework for complex decision scenarios.

The aim of this work was to rank and select the most favorable of six sweet cherry cultivars using the web-oriented FRUITrank application, which incorporates the MARCOS (the Measurement of Alternatives and Ranking according to Compromise Solution) multi-criteria decision-making algorithm. During the ranking, 10 criteria were taken into account, one of which relates to the harvest start time, three to the physical characteristics of the fruit (including the pedicel), four to the chemical properties of the fruit, and one to the organoleptic characteristics. Alternative A3 (Kordia cultivar) was ranked as the best, the Izabela cultivar (A4) as second place, while Summit (A5) was placed at the bottom of the ranking. Considering the fact that the complexity of algorithms of various MCDM (Multi-Criteria Decision Making) methods often limits their application, based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that the mentioned and similar digital solutions solve the mentioned problem, i.e., enable wider application of MCDM techniques both in fruit production and in agriculture in general.

Background: Malnutrition is a frequent yet often overlooked comorbidity in patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer. It is associated with adverse postoperative outcomes, including increased complications, prolonged hospital stay, and elevated mortality. Objective: This study aimed to assess the clinical impact of short-term preoperative enteral nutrition in malnourished patients undergoing elective colorectal cancer surgery. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted involving 68 malnourished patients with histologically confirmed stage I–III colorectal cancer. Patients were divided into three groups: Group A (14-day enteral nutrition), Group B (7-day enteral nutrition), and Group C (no supplementation). Nutritional status, laboratory parameters, postoperative complications, transfusion needs, and hospitalization metrics were compared among groups. Results: Group A demonstrated the most favorable outcomes, including significantly fewer postoperative complications such as anastomotic leakage (5.0% vs. 17.9%, p = 0.030), reduced transfusion and albumin requirements, and shorter ICU and hospital stays (1.6 ± 0.7 and 7.1 ± 2.4 days, respectively). Group C showed the highest complication and mortality rates. Improvements in biochemical markers were observed in both intervention groups, supporting the efficacy of enteral supplementation. Conclusion: Short-term preoperative enteral nutrition significantly improves clinical outcomes in malnourished colorectal cancer patients undergoing elective surgery. These findings support the integration of nutritional screening and intervention as standard components of perioperative care in oncologic surgery.

Diabetes mellitus is one of the greatest public health challenges of the 21st century. The number of cases has been on the rise for many years, reaching a pandemic scale. The purpose of this study was to examine the risk factors relevant for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The study was conducted at the Dorćol Primary Healthcare Facility within the Medigroup Healthcare system, with persons who had come in for preventive medical examinations over a period of six months. The study included 150 participants. Data on sex, age, arterial hypertension and pharmacotherapy were collected, and weight, height and glycaemia were measured. The Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment Questionnaire was used as the research instrument, in line with the recommendations of the National Guide for the Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes for primary care physicians (FINDRISC). The data were processed using IBM SPSS Statistics 22 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) software package. A higher risk for developing diabetes was observed in participants reporting irregular consumption of fruits and vegetables (38.0%), physical inactivity (34.0%), and in those with abdominal obesity (32.0%) and a positive family history of diabetes (17.3%). A timely intervention aimed at modifiable risk factors, primarily lifestyle interventions, can prevent type 2 diabetes and mitigate complications.

Background: The upper mini sternotomy Bentall (mini-Bentall) procedure may result in less trauma and earlier recovery compared with the usual full sternotomy Bentall procedure (Usual Bentall-DeBono procedure). Objective: This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of mini sternotomy aortic root surgery (MSARS), a minimally invasive technique designed to reduce surgical trauma, improve postoperative recovery, and lower healthcare costs. Methods: The upper mini sternotomy (UMS) approach was performed in ten patients focusing on standardized surgical procedures, and rigorous postoperative care. Key findings indicate that MSARS markedly reduces postoperative complications, ICU stay, and overall hospital stay compared to traditional sternotomy. Results: The median postoperative length of stay was seven days for MSARS versus 11 days for traditional sternotomy, with ICU stays of 27 hours and 105 hours, respectively. Our study also highlights the cost-effectiveness of MSARS, with decreased hospital costs per patient due to reduced ICU resource utilization and shorter hospital stays. These findings suggest that MSARS is a valuable and advantageous alternative to traditional sternotomy, offering substantial benefits in terms of patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. Conclusion: Mini sternotomy aortic root surgery via partial upper sternotomy could be a safe alternative to the full median sternotomy, marking a significant advancement in the field of cardiac surgery.

Background: Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is a rare hereditary disease affecting small vessels in the brain caused by mutations in the NOTCH3 gene. It has a wide palette of clinical manifestations, usually starting with cognitive decline, migraine and headaches. Therefore, it is frequently misdiagnosed as a transitory ischaemic attack (TIA), ischaemic stroke, or migraine. As advances in genetic testing enable the detection of patients with CADASIL, its incidence is rising. However, CADASIL is still rarely diagnosed, especially in countries with scarce socio-economic resources in healthcare, such as genetic testing that is mandatory to diagnosticate CADASIL. However, it should be considered in everyday clinical practice as a differential diagnosis, especially in younger patients with positive family history. To our knowledge, there has not been a CADASIL case reported in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Objective: This case report aims to present rare confirmed case of CADASIL in a 56-year-old man that presented with rapid cognitive decline. Case presentation: A 56-year-old man was admitted to the Department of Neurology accompanied by his wife, who gave heteroanamnestic information. The patient works abroad and in the past month, during a telephone conversation, the wife noticed that the patient forgets what he has just said to her. The test results showed the presence of heterozygote mutation (c.401G>A) on the NOTCH3 gene, which confirmed the CADASIL diagnosis in this patient. He was further prescribed dual antiplatelet therapy and advised to do a follow-up exam in one month. Genetic advisory and testing of other family members was recommended, but it has not yet been conducted. He can still perform all activities of daily living. The importance of exome sequencing that enables the detection of a genetic mutations causing this rare disease is highlighted. Conclusion: Family members should also be advised to do genetic testing, as this enables the detection of CADASIL before the onset of symptoms. In addition, more aggressive preventive methods, life-style changes and symptomatic treatment can be included on-time, which will increase patient’s quality of life and decrease the development of various neurological complications.

Background: Hydrocephalus is the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement is one of the most commonly performed neurosurgical procedures and is necessary for the treatment of most forms of hydrocephalus. Objective: The aim of the study was to determine demographic indicators, comorbidities, complications and outcome of patients with hydrocephalus after ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation. Methods: This is a retrospective study. Data on the subjects' age, gender, symptoms, degree of disability, complications, comorbidities and outcome after ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation were recorded. All patients were clinically examined by neurologists and neurosurgeons and diagnosed through unified and standardized algorithms according to established guidelines for hydrocephalus. Cognitive functionality was assessed according to the Mini Mental State Test. Urinary incontinence was assessed based on patients' subjective feelings. Data on comorbidities and complications were collected from the patients' medical records. The degree of disability was assessed using the modified Rankin scale. Results: The average age of the subjects was 58.7 years, and the highest frequency of subjects was in the age group over 61 years (62.2%). There was no statistically significant difference in age in men (X=54.69, SD=18.77), or women (X=60.88, SD=19.96); t (35)=0.8, p=0.3. A statistically significant number of patients with hydrocephalus had a lower degree of disability after ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation (p<0.05). Hypertension was the most common comorbidity with hydrocephalus (35.1%). Pneumonia was the most common general complication in patients with hydrocephalus (8.1%). Females had a statistically significantly worse survival (p=0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in the outcome of hydrocephalus patients in relation to age groups, comorbidities, general and complications after ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation (p>0.05). Conclusion: Patients with hydrocephalus after ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation have a lower degree of disability, and female patients have statistically significantly worse survival. Hypertension is the most common comorbidity, and pneumonia the most common complication in patients with hydrocephalus. There is no statistically significant difference in the outcome of hydrocephalus patients in relation to age groups, comorbidities, general and complications after ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation.